Melissa Gilbert is a name synonymous with talent, resilience, and determination. From her early days as a child actress to her current status as a successful television director, voice actor, and businessperson, Melissa has consistently impressed audiences with her versatility and dedication to her craft.
In this article, we will delve into Melissa Gilbert net worth, her early life, career beginnings, and her journey to becoming one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment industry.
Profile Summary
| Category | Information |
| Full Name | Melissa Ellen Gilbert |
| Nickname | Melissa |
| Gender | Female |
| Birthday | May 8, 1964 |
| Age | 60 years old (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Current Residence | New York, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish and Irish descent |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Education | High school diploma |
| Profession | Actress, television director, voice actor, businessperson |
| Father | Paul Gilbert (adopted) |
| Mother | Barbara Crane (adopted) |
| Siblings | Jonathan Gilbert (adopted) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Timothy Busfield |
| Children | Dakota Brinkman, Michael Boxleitner |
| Height | 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm) |
| Weight | 120 pounds (54 kg) |
| Body Measurements | 34-26-34 inches (86-66-86 cm) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Net Worth | $500,000 (combined with husband) |
| Source of Income | Acting, directing, voice acting, business ventures |
| Social Media | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook |
What is Melissa Gilbert Net Worth and Salary?
Melissa Gilbert’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000, a combined net worth with her husband, Timothy Busfield. While her net worth may not be as high as some of her contemporaries, Melissa’s wealth is a testament to her hard work and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Her salary for her work on Little House on the Prairie was a modest $75,000 per week, but her earnings from her subsequent projects and endeavors have contributed significantly to her net worth.
Early Life
Born on May 8, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, Melissa Gilbert was adopted by actor Paul Gilbert and his wife, Barbara Crane. Her early life was marked by her parents’ divorce when she was just eight years old, and her father’s subsequent suicide when she was 11.
Despite these challenges, Melissa’s mother encouraged her to pursue her passion for acting, and she began her career as a child actress in the late 1960s.
Also Read: The Grand Duke Is Mine Spoilers
Career Beginnings
Melissa’s early career was marked by appearances in numerous television commercials and guest roles on popular television shows. Her breakthrough role came in 1974 when she was cast as Laura Ingalls Wilder in the NBC historical drama series Little House on the Prairie. Her performance earned her two Young Artist Awards and a nomination for an Emmy Award.
Little House on the Prairie
Little House on the Prairie was a defining moment in Melissa’s career, and she credits the show with teaching her valuable lessons about hard work, discipline, and the importance of family. Her portrayal of Laura Ingalls Wilder remains one of her most iconic roles, and she continues to be beloved by fans of the show.
Further Television Career
After Little House on the Prairie, Melissa appeared in numerous television films and series, including The Diary of Anne Frank, The Miracle Worker, and Batman: The Animated Series. Her voice acting career has also been prolific, with roles in popular animated series such as The Simpsons and Rugrats.
Film Career
Melissa’s film career has been marked by appearances in films such as The Reluctant Astronaut, Nutcracker Fantasy, and Sylvester. While her film career may not have been as extensive as her television career, her performances have been consistently praised by critics and audiences alike.
SAG President
In 2001, Melissa was elected president of the Screen Actors Guild, a position she held until 2005. Her tenure was marked by her advocacy for actors’ rights and her commitment to improving working conditions for actors.
2016 Congressional Candidate
In 2016, Melissa ran for Congress in Michigan’s 8th congressional district as a Democratic candidate. Although she suspended her campaign due to health issues, her willingness to enter the political arena demonstrates her commitment to public service and her desire to make a positive impact on her community.
Personal Life
Melissa’s personal life has been marked by her marriages to Bo Brinkman and Bruce Boxleitner, as well as her current marriage to Timothy Busfield. She has two children, Dakota and Michael, and has been open about her struggles with addiction and her journey towards recovery.
Tax Issues
In 2015, Melissa faced tax issues due to unpaid federal income taxes, which she attributed to financial difficulties resulting from the recession and her divorce from Bruce Boxleitner. She has since worked out a payment plan with the IRS and has been open about her financial struggles.
Real Estate
Melissa and her husband, Timothy Busfield, own a 14-acre property in New York’s Catskill mountains, which they purchased in 2019 for $98,000. They also own a home in Howell, Michigan, which they purchased in 2018.
Final Thoughts
Melissa Gilbert’s net worth may not be the highest in the entertainment industry, but her wealth is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and dedication to her craft.
From her early days as a child actress to her current status as a successful television director, voice actor, and businessperson, Melissa has consistently impressed audiences with her versatility and talent.
Her commitment to public service and her advocacy for actors’ rights demonstrate her character and integrity, and her journey towards recovery from addiction serves as an inspiration to many.
Also Read: The Youngest Son of a Magician
FAQs
What is Melissa Gilbert net worth?
Melissa Gilbert net worth is estimated to be around $500,000.
What is Melissa Gilbert’s most famous role?
Melissa Gilbert is most famous for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder in the NBC historical drama series Little House on the Prairie.
How many times has Melissa Gilbert been married?
Melissa Gilbert has been married three times: to Bo Brinkman, Bruce Boxleitner, and Timothy Busfield.
Does Melissa Gilbert have any children?
Yes, Melissa Gilbert has two children: Dakota Brinkman and Michael Boxleitner.
What is Melissa Gilbert’s political affiliation?
Melissa Gilbert is a member of the Democratic Party and ran for Congress in Michigan’s 8th congressional district in 2016.
